According to the data you provided (38 weeks pregnant, cervix 5 cm 5o% thin out), you might want to have cervical ripening.
In the last stage of the pregnancy, the cervix prepares itself for the delivery. It shortens and becomes thinner at the same time. Specific substances are known to have an effect in this. When the cervix is not shot or thin enough, the gynecologists might want to try a cervix ripening. It can be done by mechanical methods that dilate the cervix causing increased production of prostaglandins (the substances needed for the actual ripening). Synthetic prostaglandins might be given, too.
In the end, surgical methods, such as “stripping of the membranes” in which the membranes are stripped by inserting a finger in the cervix, might be used.
Each method has its own pros and cons. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you consult with your gynecologist if you need cervical ripening at all (given that you are in the 38th week of pregnancy), and, if needed, which one would be best for you, with the smallest risk for any kind of complication.
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